The Art of Lighting Fluted Panels: Illuminating Elegance

Fluted panels, with their graceful vertical ridges, have been a cherished element in design for centuries. These panels, whether adorning walls, ceilings, or furniture, possess an innate beauty that can be further accentuated through thoughtful lighting. In this article, we delve into the techniques and considerations involved in illuminating fluted panels to unlock their full aesthetic potential.

Understanding Fluted Panels:

Before delving into lighting strategies, it's crucial to understand the characteristics of fluted panels. These panels consist of vertical grooves or ridges, which create a play of light and shadow. Their textures are both tactile and visual, adding depth and dimension to surfaces. The key to effective lighting is highlighting these unique qualities.

1. Ambient Lighting:

To enhance fluted panels' elegance, start with ambient lighting. Soft, even illumination throughout the room creates a gentle glow that allows the panels' texture to shine. Recessed ceiling lights or wall sconces can provide this foundational lighting. They cast a warm, diffused light that accentuates the panels without overpowering them.

2. Grazing Light:

Fluted panels' vertical ridges are a canvas for grazing light. Placing light sources at a low angle along the panels' surface accentuates the ridges and creates captivating shadows. This technique adds drama and depth, making the panels appear more pronounced.

3. Uplighting:

Uplighting is another effective method to showcase fluted panels. Placing concealed LED strips or fixtures at the base of panels directs light upwards, accentuating the ridges and casting intriguing shadows on the upper portions. This technique can create a striking visual impact, particularly in architectural features like columns or wainscoting.

4. Focused Spotlights:

For a more dramatic effect, consider using focused spotlights or adjustable track lighting. These fixtures allow you to pinpoint specific sections of fluted panels, drawing attention to intricate details or creating focal points within a space.

5. Color Temperature:

Pay attention to the color temperature of the light. Warmer tones (around 2700K) create a cozy, inviting ambiance, while cooler tones (around 4000K) lend a more contemporary feel. The choice depends on the desired atmosphere and the overall design scheme.

6. Dimming Controls:

Implement dimming controls to adjust the lighting intensity. This versatility allows you to adapt the illumination to different occasions and moods, ensuring that the fluted panels remain a dynamic and flexible design element.

7. Experiment and Consult:

Lastly, don't hesitate to experiment with different lighting techniques to discover what works best for your specific fluted panel application. It's often beneficial to consult with a lighting designer or professional who can provide expert guidance tailored to your project. Feel free to contact us for expert advice if you're uncertain about the ideal fluted panel color for your space. We're here to assist you in making the best choice to enhance your environment.

In conclusion, the art of lighting fluted panels involves a delicate balance of techniques that highlight their inherent beauty. From ambient lighting to grazing light and uplighting, these strategies can transform fluted panels into mesmerizing design features. By understanding the unique characteristics of these panels and employing thoughtful lighting, you can unlock their full potential and create spaces that exude elegance and sophistication.

Fluted Panels in Retail Spaces: Designing Dynamic and Inviting Storefronts

In the competitive realm of retail, creating a captivating and unique storefront is crucial for attracting customers and establishing a brand identity. Fluted panels, with their distinctive texture and design potential, offer an innovative approach to crafting dynamic and inviting retail storefronts. This article explores how fluted panels can be creatively integrated into retail spaces to design storefronts that not only draw in foot traffic but also communicate a brand's essence.

Fluted Panels being used on the storefront

1. Fluted Panels as Visual Statements:

The textured surface of fluted panels catches the eye and creates a visually intriguing focal point for passersby. When used as storefront elements, fluted panels can immediately convey a sense of style, sophistication, and creativity. By strategically placing fluted panels at key points on the storefront, retailers can establish a strong visual statement that sets the tone for the entire shopping experience.

2. Branding and Identity:

Fluted panels can be customized to reflect a brand's unique identity and values. Whether through color choices, patterns, or finishes, fluted panels provide a canvas for translating brand aesthetics into physical design. Retailers can leverage fluted panels to create a consistent and memorable brand image that resonates with their target audience.

Incorporating lights into Fluted Panels

3. Play of Light and Shadow:

The three-dimensional texture of fluted panels interacts dynamically with light, casting intriguing shadows and reflections. This play of light and shadow adds depth and movement to the storefront, captivating attention and creating an ever-changing visual experience. Exploring different lighting techniques and their effects on fluted panels enhances the overall storefront design.

4. Interactive Elements:

Incorporating interactive features into fluted panel storefronts can engage and involve customers, making the shopping experience more immersive. Hinged or movable fluted panels can serve as entryways, allowing customers to physically interact with the storefront. Integrating technology such as LED displays or projection mapping onto fluted surfaces adds a layer of interactivity and excitement.

5. Flexibility and Adaptability:

Fluted panels offer versatility in design, enabling retailers to adapt their storefronts for different seasons, promotions, or events. Swappable fluted panels or temporary overlays can be employed to refresh the storefront's look and maintain customer interest over time.

Fluted panels hold the potential to revolutionize the way retailers approach storefront design. By incorporating fluted panels strategically, retailers can create storefronts that not only capture attention but also reflect brand identity, engage customers, and offer a unique and immersive shopping experience. The interplay of texture, light, color, and design transforms retail spaces into dynamic and inviting environments that leave a lasting impression on visitors and passersby alike.

Maintaining Fluted Panels; It's Easier Than You Think

EcoWALLS™ Fluted Panel - Easy To Maintain. Image Credit: NBL Express - Eco Flooring Pte Ltd on Facebook.

Fluted Panels' Appeal and Cleaning Ease

Feature panels are a rising trend in interior walls, and fluted panels are well-received for having a streamlined appeal and cleaning ease. Made of engineered composites, fluted panels have enhanced material protection for straightforward maintenance. In the previous blog post, we covered practical and expressive ways in which fluted panels define home interior spaces. In continuation, here is an informative guide on maintaining fluted panels.

Maintain Conducive Environment

Install fluted panels away from windows and doors to avoid direct sunlight and rain splatter. While they withstand environmental conditions well, it is prudent to prevent prolonged exposure to natural elements. Interior conditions are equally essential to ensure a conducive environment to protect fluted panels. Avoid installing panels near air-conditioners, heaters and other electrical appliances to prevent moisture, dryness, vibration and temperature fluctuation. Another straightforward way is to fix curtains or louvre blinds on windows to deflect or soften ultraviolet (UV) impact.

With a corrugating pattern of ridges and grooves in a geometric flow, fluted panels have a calming effect on our minds. Besides living rooms and bedrooms, installing it in kitchens and bathrooms gives a much needed soothing and decorative effect. Hence, you will want to protect the panels against grease and moisture by installing the panels away from stoves, showers and taps. Despite minimising exposure, dust and stains will spread and accumulate on grooves and ridges over time. But fret not, as simple cleaning will suffice.

Clean Dust and Dirt

Fluting has the geometric allure and alignment of linear lines, zig-zag or chevron patterns, and concave or convex shapes. Such features facilitate the flexibility to install and complement the designs or themes of surrounding interiors. Conversely, their contours and corrugation allow dust to settle in. Hence, it is essential to wipe regularly to prevent dust accumulation.

For vertical panels, wipe the contours and grooves in a top-down approach with a damp microfibre cloth to trap dust. Use a mild cleaning agent if necessary. If the panels are horizontal or with a wide width, apply a circular or "S'' motion sideways from the top panel to the bottom panel. Wash off the cloth when it builds up trapped dust and dirt before continuing wiping. In this manner, you minimise dust and dirt to redistribute back onto the surface. Through quick and regular cleaning with proper directions, it reduces the hassle and electricity costs of using a vacuum cleaner. Next, we look at how to wipe stains and splatters.

Household Cleaning Rags, by congerdesign, licensed under Pixabay License.

Wipe Stains and Splatters

While being careful, it is unavoidable that oil stains and liquid splatters may occur. Have trouble with kids scribbling on the wall? Use a lint-free polyester or microfibre cloth with gentle motions while wiping away the unwanted elements. Pat the affected areas with soap water or shower foam, and it is advisable to wipe vertically from top to bottom in a circular or "S" motion. Wipe dry after wiping off with fresh water. Horizontal and bottom to top directions can cause water to spread or drip and thus form streaks on walls.

This method with soap water will work for most stains and splatters. What about stubborn dirt and grime? Typically, powerful detergents or solvent cleaners will do the trick. However, they have acidic compounds that cause damage to the panels and are hazardous to our respiration. We got you covered with NBL Express’ Concentrated Vinyl Cleaner that safely cleans panels and restores shine.

For more information on fluted panels and their care instructions, you can contact us at 6252 1910 / 6465 0429 or email ecoflooring@nblexpress.com. Our showroom is at 615 Balestier Road Singapore 329910, operating from 10 am to 7 pm daily.

Ideas To Define Home Interior Space With Fluted Panels

EcoWALLS™ Fluted Panel. Image Credit: NBL Express - Eco Flooring on Facebook.

Fluted Panels’ Inspiration

Modern interior fluting technique stems from classical architecture, in which concave grooves (inward) or convex ridges (outward) spiral along column shafts. The fluting provides a streamlined structural flow in exterior columns and line architecture, utilising natural light reflection. Likewise, using it in interior spaces gives a rhythmic flow and expresses minimalistic decors fluidly. While there are assortments of feature walls with various paints and textures, they can be overwhelming. Fluted panels are well sought-after due to their installation creativity and practical functions without the overwhelming aesthetic. Here are some viable ideas to define home interior space with fluted panels.

Line Architecture, by ekk814, licensed under Pixabay License.

Fluting In Bedroom

A bedroom is a place where you return to rest after a long day of work. Vertical chevron panels with an inverted V shape provides an ideal backdrop. Individual panels of half-inverted V alternate with evenly-spaced grooves and ridges, which merge seamlessly to form a chevron pattern. Usually, they are of two matching colours that alternate and complement each other well. Upholstery fluted headboards with smoothened grooves and ridges are ideal for beds without headboards. It provides a front aesthetic when entering the bedroom and back comfort when having a casual read. Panels with overlapping horizontal slats are applicable for installing fittings like brackets to hang light clothing, portraits or small storage bins. Through observant placement with matching pigments, you can create a practical and peaceful balance in the room.

Upholstery Fluted Headboard. Licensed under Creative Commons (CC0).

Fluting In Living Room

The living room is akin to the soul space of a family. Whether poise and peace or slightly loud and bold, fluted panels can frame your desired motivation. Fluted panels with neutral colours, evenly spread ridges and shallow grooves define a calming backdrop wall to create a relaxing vibe. Those with slightly elaborated contours provide an attractive focal point without going overboard. In large living rooms, panels instantly segregate without isolating divided zones, such as small reading, playing and dining zones. Fluted panels in hardwood brown shades reflect a close-knitted strength of a family with a cosy ambience. Metallic shades of silver, brown or black exude an industrial vibe. In addition, add abstract lighting fixtures onto fluted panels to shine a new lease of life to the living room.

EcoWALLS™ Fluted Wall. Image Credit: NBL Express - Eco Flooring.

Fluting In Kitchen and Dining Area

The kitchen and the dining area is akin to the heart of a household where conversations flow and bonds kindle. It should be optically lively to set the tone that brings the family closer. Adding a fluting feature to your household’s liking provides depth and defines the interior space with a united personality. Hence, discuss with household members to select a favourable fluted panel that complement surroundings. For example, fluted battens consist of horizontal slats forming closely in front of vertical slats that span wide from each other. The wood finish reflects a rustic taste for a close-knitted kitchen and dining atmosphere. Moreover, the hollow spaces allow hooks to hold light-weighted bags of non-perishable items that come in handy when returning from grocery shopping.

Fluted Battens. Licensed under Creative Commons CC0 1.0.

NBL Express’ Fluted Panels

Without complicated contours, fluted panels provide a favourable enhancement to interior spaces that you can look forward to applying. NBL Express’ EcoWALLS™ fluted panels possess the natural wood beauty appearance while being optimally resistant against moisture, mould and mites. They naturally blend in with interior surroundings and are easy to clean. Therefore, besides residential settings, NBL Express’ fluted panels are ideal for adding a subdued focus in commercial settings. To learn more about their enhanced composite materials and beneficial features, you may look into an earlier blog post - “EcoWALLS™ Fluted Panels, Panels That Are More Than Aesthetic and Appearance”.

EcoWALLS™ Fluted Panels from NBL - Eco Flooring Pte Ltd, Panels That Are More Than Aesthetic and Appearance

Fluted panels offer a sophisticated alternative to paint colours, wallpapers or tiles to spruce up walls. They are corrugated panels with protruded ridges and depressed grooves with engineered composites and natural wood finishes. Fluted panels are gaining popularity as featured walls due to their ability to bring life to dull backgrounds. On 28 October 2021, PropertyGuru, Southeast Asia’s pioneering PropTech firm, recommended fluted panels as a leading interior design trend for 2021/2022. With tactical textures, innovative sound insulation, and sustainable features, EcoWALLS™ fluted panels from NBL Express are an inspirational choice in the interiors market.

Tactical Textures

The application of linear lines and corrugated shapes of fluting brings the timeless elegance of classical architecture to complement flat surfaces. More than aesthetic and appearance, linear lines and corrugated shapes form tactical textures. They subtly establish focal points that naturally shift our focus towards the panels. Fluting has parallel spaces between ridges and grooves to facilitate a streamlined formation. With tactical installation, the panels can deflect lighting and hide unsightly scratches, marks or dents of the background wall. Moreover, they conceal cables of entertainment and other electronic devices and thus help to manage cables neatly.

Besides textures, the versatile laminated shades match the background colours of living rooms or concierge areas and add an attractive focus. In the office or retail spaces, matching fluted panels create a continuation design on reception areas. For instance, metallic chrome aligns well with reddish-brown mahogany to facilitate an industrial warmth. Hence, the subtle alignment provides a streamlined focus that welcomes guests, clients or patrons.

Innovative Sound Insulation

Does your apartment or workplace have open spaces or high foot traffic? Wood alone is not dense enough to absorb noise. With innovative insulation from composites of engineered materials, fluted panels minimise external and internal noises. Engineered composites with depressed grooves act as a perforated resonator to minimise sound. They absorb sounds from the surrounding atmosphere to provide decent levels of acoustic insulation. If you are in music studios, this sound insulation is a sound investment to reduce the impact of noise and echo.

The hollow spaces of grooves and protrusion of ridges allow air to permeate but absorb and disrupt soundwave passages. The absorption and disruption fragmentise the soundwaves, which consequently reduce unpleasant noises. Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) measures the level of noise that the material can absorb or reflect. The scale tips from 0 to 1, with 0 meaning no sound and fully absorbed or reflected at the other end. Smooth wood surfaces have an NRC range of 0.05 to 0.15. In contrast, corrugated composite panels have an NRC range of 0.25 to 0.80. Think how this humble innovation can bring peace on top of glamour to home and workplaces walls and ceilings.

Sustainable Features

While wood grain finishes of EcoWALLS™ furnish the raw beauty of natural wood, the film lamination repels water, termite and mould. The corrugated composite may not be the strongest, but research indicates the composite has sturdy tensile strength and flexural rigidity. Tensile strength is the ability to support the load without fracture, while flexural rigidity refers to the resistance to bending. The composite materials are a sustainable investment and cost-effective alternative to wall frames and studs. Furthermore, composite materials require low maintenance and have low carbon emissions.

Engineered wood composites are transforming the building industry with sustainable features. Wood-polymer composites have low cumulative energy demand (CED) during the production and processing of composite materials. The composite nanostructure and film lamination allows the enhancement of material and mechanical properties. Hence, with an optimal amount of materials and a high level of mechanical performance, fluted panels are economically and structurally efficient. Therefore, these sustainable features make EcoWALLS™ fluted panels an eco-friendly and economically sustainable choice.

Beyond visual aesthetics, fluted panels are relatively flexible to install and provide practical benefits in residential and commercial spaces. Looking for fluted panels and resilient walls and would like to know more? NBL Express is a leading provider of indoor and outdoor flooring solutions in Singapore. You can read customer reviews from Homees.co for reference. Contact us for a consultation to find inspirational ideas and seek quotations. Our showroom is at 536 Balestier Road Singapore 329861 and operates daily from 10 am to 7 pm. We look forward to serving you.

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